Itai Mazire
A 41-year-old family friend who lured a four-year-old girl from her mother with the promise of buying chips, then took her to his home and raped her, was yesterday sentenced to an effective 40 years in prison.
Ronald Nkomo of Pumula North was convicted just four days after the 17 May 2026 attack in a swift judgment police say sends an unmistakable warning to sex offenders.
“Police in Bulawayo confirms the arrest and conviction of accused person Ronald Nkomo, a male adult aged 41 years, in connection with a case of Aggravated indecent Assault and rape,” said provincial police spokesperson Inspector Nomalanga Msebele.
According to court papers, the victim was at home with her mother when Nkomo, a trusted family friend, arrived asking for food. After being given sweet potatoes the child was eating, he offered to buy her chips as compensation.
“The accused instead took the minor to his place of residence where he raped her once,” said Inspector Msebele.
The mother grew suspicious when her daughter did not return and followed Nkomo to his house. She found the girl in the toilet with parts of her dress wet. The child then revealed what had happened.
On May 21 1016, Nkomo appeared before the court and was convicted on both charges.
“On the 21st of May 2026, the accused person appeared before the court facing Aggravated Indecent Assault and Rape charges where he was convicted and sentenced to a combined 40 years imprisonment.”
The magistrate handed down the maximum penalty without an option of a fine.
“We commend our courts for their swift and decisive handling of such cases,” Msebele said.
“Justice delivered sends a strong message to the criminals that crimes of this nature will not be tolerated.”
The case adds to a growing list of sexual offences involving minors where perpetrators were known to the family.
“We also urge parents and guardians not to entrust their children with anyone to avoid cases of rape involving trusted people including neighbours and relatives,” she said.
Nkomo will serve his sentence at a Bulawayo prison. The child is receiving counselling.
